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The Classics

Photo Flashback: Jamaica prays for the 1966 Commonwealth Games

Published:Friday | July 26, 2024 | 8:27 AM
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FIRST HOME: Glenford Robinson, the anchor man for the St Andrew relay team, approaches the Royal Box at the National Stadium to hand the baton containing the Message for Commonwealth Games Sunday to the author, the governor general.
A VIEW of the gathering of thousands, in the grandstands of the National Stadium on July 25, 1965, for the Commonwealth Games Sunday service.
THE THIRTY-TWO-MAN Woodstock Citadel Band of the Salvation Army in Toronto performing at the National Stadium on July 25, 1965 in a concert which formed part of Commonwealth Games Sunday Ceremonials. Conductor is Bandmaster James Gordon. The band arrived in Jamaica yesterday morning, a day later than scheduled, their flight having been delayed.
THE FIRST BATTALION, THE JAMAICA REGIMENT BAND, under Capt E.R. Wade, with the visiting Woodstock Citadel Band of the Salvation Army. THE FIRST BATTALION, the Jamaica Regiment band, conducted by Capt E.R. Wade, taking part in the band concert at the National Stadium on July 25, 1965.
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The ceremony for the Eighth British Empire and Commonwealth Games  was graced by notable figures including Governor General Sir Clifford Campbell, Acting Prime Minister Hon Donald Sangster, and Minister of Development and Welfare Hon Edward Seaga. Prayers led by prominent religious leaders, and stirring performances, including a 600-strong choir singing Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus, highlighted the event. Governor General Campbell emphasised the honour and responsibility of hosting the Games, urging national unity and support.